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Knowing Where Bicyclists Can Ride Can Prevent Bike Accidents

Anyone who is on a California road, whether they are riding a bike or driving a vehicle, should be aware of the laws. This includes drivers understanding where bikes can and cannot legally ride. Of course, bike riders should also know where they can legally be. If everyone on the road were better aware of bike laws, the number of bike accidents would likely decrease.

At Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas we have compiled some basic information regarding where bikes can and cannot legally be ridden. If you or a loved one is involved in a bike accident, contact us at 909-982-0707 to request a free legal consultation.

Where Bikes Can Legally be Ridden

Generally speaking, bikes can be ridden as long as the rider is riding with traffic and maintaining the speed of vehicles around them. If the rider is not able to keep up with the speed of the traffic then they must ride on the right as close as possible to the curb. If there is a bike lane then that must be used. There are exceptions, including:

  • When passing other bikes, cars, or pedestrians
  • When approaching a right turn
  • When turning left
  • When avoiding a hazard in the road
  • When passing bikes in the bike lane
  • In a construction zone

When these exceptions come up, the cyclist can enter the lanes designated for cars. The drivers must allow the rider to do this and must treat a bike as though it is a car.

In Some Cases the Bike Lane is Optional

The purpose of a bike lane is to separate bikes from traffic. However, a person riding a bike does not have to use it unless they are not able to keep up with the speed of traffic. In that instance, they must use the bike lane if available. It is almost always against the law for a bike to be on the sidewalk unless the rider is a child. Though there is no state law, most municipalities have laws against riding on the sidewalk.

Even if there is no specific law or rule, it is often dangerous for a bike to be on the sidewalk as it increases the chances of causing a pedestrian accident. In the event of a collision between a person on a bike and a person on a pedestrian, if the accident happens on the sidewalk then the bike rider is almost always going to be found at fault and can be held financially responsible.

If you or a loved one is injured in any type of accident, whether a bike accident, motorcycle accident, or other accident, then you should talk to a personal injury attorney. You can do so by contacting Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.